Absolutely horrible and borderline fiction. ( )

Absolutely horrible and borderline fiction. ( )

I read on avg at least a couple books every week, and some are obviously better than others. This is expected but for the most part I enjoy parts of most of them. This is the worst book I have read in a very long time. The author seems incompetent his historic reach is too far to be taken as non-fiction. Horrible!!! ( )

The title of this book is stolen from Benjamin Franklin when asked if we were founding a monarchy or a republic. With his classic quick wit, he responded, "A republic... if you can keep it."

This book, by a radio talk show host, comprises a series of lecture-type chapters that admonishes patriotism instead of carelessness towards America. It contains many anecdotes which are interesting, such as that of Nathan Hale's, "I regret only that I have but one life to give for my country."

It lacks a central argument beyond the obvious patriotism. Maybe I haven't experienced that anti-patriotism of the Northeast, but Metaxas' pleadings seem somewhat obvious. He doesn't really raise the conversation that highly beyond the obvious observation that we are killing each other with partisanship. Instead of exploring that topic in depth, he just sermonizes about one's country in a very superficial manner.

I like Metaxas' other works on Bonhoeffer and Luther. Despite the entertaining stories, this work lacks a fundamental central idea. I'd take a pass on this one. ( )

This book eloquently reminds us of what our country has been and gives hope that we, as a people, could regain and practice the ideals that once characterized America. There is more than a little religiosity, but it remains a sound piece of encouragement in these or any other times, as demonstrated by the variety of sources quoted. You won't be sorry that you read this one.
Won in a Goodreads Giveaway. ( )